The Best Small Wedding Venues in Washington, DC

The Best Small Wedding Venues in Washington, DC

How do we sort results, including Sponsored Ads and personalized results?


5 Wedding Venues in Washington, DC

Lodges, retreats
Up to 50 guests
Available on September 13, 2026
Quick responder
Milton Ridge 

5.0

Clarksburg, MD
  • Up to 150 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $3,250
  • Offer

Located in the rolling hills of Maryland between Frederick, MD and Washington, D.C., Milton Ridge boasts exquisite setting and exceptional services. The beautifully restored Milton Ridge Historic Chapel and Reception Hall have been created exclusively for beautiful weddings and occasions with special attention given to every detail. Having your wedding ceremony and reception all in one location will make your wedding planning much easier. It gives you more control over timing and flow, as well as make things easier for your guests. At Milton Ridge, our event coordinator will assist in the planning of every detail of your wedding or special event. We have the ability to customize every detail to meet the specific needs for your special event. With our unique all-inclusive pricing, there are no surprises. You know the true costs up-front, which makes budgeting easier. It also allows us to offer beautifully personalized events at a tremendous value.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has onsite accommodations
  • Classic, vintage atmosphere
  • Provides lighting and sound

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • Not for you if you don't want a rustic vibe
Awarded Best of Zola
My daughter and her husband chose Milton Ridge for their wedding venue. I live on the opposite coast so I had no opportunity to have a look myself. She and her husband were very happy with the layout of the property and the location. She assured me that staff were warm and friendly as well as very professional and that all questions were addressed promptly and in great detail. My daughter and her husband felt listened to and respected by everyone at Milton Ridge. I was anxious but it was their wedding and they had done a lot of research! I am overjoyed that they chose Milton Ridge for their very special day!! I spoke to many guests and family members that day and evening; everyone had high praise for the couple’s choice of venue. The property is self-contained with a beautiful turn of the century chapel on the lower level of the property and a very large bricked patio on the upper level; with an enormous wooden gazebo at one end and tiered garden area at the opposite end. Indoor or outdoor wedding?? Hard to choose as both areas are sooooo lovely. The Bridal suite and Grooms quarter are in a building adjacent to the chapel on the lower level of the property. Another turn of the century building with Bridal suite, porch and porch swing on the ground level and the Grooms quarters on the 2nd level via a private enclosed stairway; providing total privacy for both parties and their respective entourages. Both areas were very well appointed, comfortable and large; plenty of room for multiple people in each area to get ready for the big day! The Reception Hall was on the upper level with a porch and short stairway leading from the hall to the outdoor patio. The Hall was fresh and bright with plenty of room for DJ, tables, dance floor, bar and buffet without feeling overfilled or crowded. Bride and Groom chose the bar-b-que menu for their dinner; it was beautifully presented, delicious and plentiful. No one left Milton Ridge hungry that evening! The wait staff and bartenders were all very attentive and had obviously been very well trained at table service and bar service respectively. Music was provided by a DJ who was contracted by Milton Ridge and was included with the package that my daughter and her husband had chosen. The selection was a mix of old and new with the focus of getting the guests up and dancing. He was very good at his job and he accomplished his goal! Last but definitely not least; the photographer; also contracted with Milton Ridge! He was amazing!!! The unique shots, quality and beauty of his work left us speechless. He was everywhere, but never in the way, always inconspicuous and watching for that perfect candid shot. Even his posed photos had a very relaxed casual look about them. All photos were organized and available to the newlyweds on the Milton Ridge website within 10days of their wedding day!! ALL pictures belong to her and her husband to print, copy and share with whoever they wish!! Milton Ridge exceeded my expectation and I would never hesitate to recommend them to anyone!!
Karen F., a month ago
Omni Shoreham Hotel 

5.0

Washington, DC
  • Up to 750 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $30,000

Timeless elegance awaits you at the Omni Shoreham Hotel, one of Washington, DC’s most romantic and picturesque wedding venues. Nestled in the leafy surrounds of Woodley Park, the hotel sits on 12 acres, centrally located yet secluded in nature. We invite you to celebrate your love in one of our stunning ballrooms and our charming and elegant gardens. Toast your friends and family and dance the night away while our experienced staff delivers the event of your dreams.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a glamorous vibe
  • Multiple event spaces
  • Versatile for various event styles

Venue considerations

  • No free parking
  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
We had a fantastic wedding experience at the Omni Shoreham. The on-site coordinators were knowledgeable and helpful leading up to the event and executed the day/weekend wonderfully. The outside gazebo where we got married was gorgeous and the ballroom was set up to perfection.
Casie K., 2 years ago
Phoenix Park Hotel 
Washington, DC
  • Up to 120 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor

Our personalized assistance and planning through our experienced team will helps you select the wedding packages that's just right for you. Our catering services will delight your guests, featuring cuisine from our head Chef. Our team painstakingly aims to create the meals that reflect your personality. Take a look at our Washington DC Wedding Packages, and feel assured that The Phoenix Park Hotel is where you can create the impressive wedding venue setting of a lifetime.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away
  • Multiple event spaces
  • Dressing room available

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • On-site parking not available
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
AC Hotel Washington DC Downtown 
Washington, DC
  • Up to 90 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $5,000

The AC Hotel Washington DC Downtown brings an all new experience to the heart of downtown. This European influenced hotel brings a modern, sophisticated style that creates an oasis among the hustle and bustle of downtown. The Spanish roots of the AC Hotel brand combine with a modern, clean style to inspire guests to take in the elegance of design, highlighting the spirit of the city. Guests will be taken in by the lobby light installation by artist Anke Neumann from the German studio Lichtpapier, which is designed to pay homage to the Potomac River. Evenings are highlighted with cocktails and small bites in the AC Lounge and seasonal outdoor seating area. AC Hotel Washington DC Downtown is steps from the White House, Dupont Circle, and George Washington University. The hotel is walking distance from two major Metro stops, providing easy access to Capitol Hill, Georgetown, and more.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Pets can join the celebration
  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Dressing room available

Venue considerations

  • Dance floor not included
  • On-site parking not available
  • Not wheelchair accessible
The Mansion on O Street 
Washington, DC
  • Up to 300 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $999

with our themed rooms and 70 secret doors we are like no other wedding venue in the world - offering a destination wedding without having to travel. we have been featured on the travel channel's "mega mansions" (see us on netflix), named a washingtonian magazine "hidden gem" and featured in national geographic traveler among others. our world-class cuisine, top-notch service and awe-inspiring intimate environment will create lasting memories for you and your guests. our 5 star chef can create an extraordinary meal tailored to your groups unique personality and dietary needs - including, kosher-style, halal, vegan, vegetarian, regional and international cuisine. our pastry chef is rated in the top ten in the country. we offer packaged pricing that can be enhanced and customized just for you. your complimentary event planner will listen to you - to create the wedding you've always dreamed of - so you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying your special day.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Private area for the wedding party
  • Multiple event spaces
  • Space for a large guest list

Venue considerations

  • On-site parking not available
  • Dance floor not included
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists

Location flexible? Discover venues near Washington, DC

About wedding venues in Washington, DC

What Makes DC's Wedding Venues Worth Their Premium Price?

You'll discover something truly special in DC's most distinctive venues. Take the International Spy Museum, where your wedding photos can capture interactive exhibits as unique backdrops, or the Anderson House with its stunning 18th-century architecture and intimate garden setting. If you're looking for modern sophistication, District Winery combines urban charm with waterfront views and private wine cellars perfect for intimate celebrations. Art lovers will appreciate the National Museum of Women in the Arts, where your ceremony can unfold beneath Renaissance Revival architecture and rotating art exhibitions.

When it comes to pricing, DC venues typically run between $10,800 and $12,700 – a bit higher than the national range of $6,500-$12,000. But you're getting more than just a space; you're investing in prestigious locations and comprehensive services that make your day truly memorable.

How Much Does a DC Wedding Actually Cost?

Planning a wedding in DC? Here's what you can expect to spend for 150 guests, with the average total coming in at $62,864. Let's break that down:

Service CategoryAverage CostPercentage of Total
Venue$11,73225%
Catering$9,38520%
Bar Services$7,50816%
Florists$7,82117%
Photographers$5,68812%
Planners$4,97711%

When Should You Book Your DC Wedding Vendors?

Start your planning journey about a year out, with venue booking leading the way at 12 months before your big day. You'll want to secure your caterer photographer band or DJ and wedding planner around the 10-month mark. Florists typically need 9 months' notice while hair and makeup artists should be booked 8 months ahead. Here's a pro tip: October sees the highest number of venue inquiries so plan accordingly.

Which DC Venues Best Match Different Wedding Styles?

Whether you're dreaming of historic elegance or modern sophistication DC has it all. The Kimpton Hotel Monaco transforms historic marble corridors into fresh contemporary spaces while the St. Regis Washington DC offers timeless luxury with Palladian windows and crystal chandeliers. For something truly unique check out The Line DC housed in a 110-year-old church where soaring ceilings and original stained glass meet modern design. Nature lovers will find their perfect backdrop at the United States National Arboretum spanning 446 acres with the iconic National Capitol Columns.

How Do DC's Historic Venues Blend Tradition with Modern Amenities?

You'll find thoughtful adaptations across DC's historic venues. The Hay-Adams welcomes diverse celebrations with specially designed spaces while the National Union Building offers kosher kitchen facilities and flexible spaces for traditional ceremonies. Even the International Spy Museum steps up with multilingual staff and adaptable floor plans that work for various cultural seating arrangements.

What Makes DC's Indoor-Outdoor Venues Unique?

Picture your ceremony at the DC War Memorial surrounded by cherry blossoms with space for up to 250 guests. Or imagine celebrating at Sequoia Restaurant where floor-to-ceiling windows and waterfront terraces create a stunning backdrop. The National Museum of Women in the Arts offers the best of both worlds: a grand marble staircase inside and a lovely garden outside perfect for cocktail hour.

How Can You Navigate DC's Wedding Transportation Options?

Getting around DC is easier than you might think. The St. Regis puts you just two blocks from McPherson Square Metro while District Winery offers a unique water taxi service. Anderson House makes parking a breeze with valet service for 200 vehicles plus shuttle options. The International Spy Museum's central location gives your guests access to three Metro lines and reliable transportation partners.

Which DC Venues Excel at Inclusive Celebrations?

Every couple deserves their perfect celebration. The National Museum of Women in the Arts features complete universal access throughout with elevator service to all ceremony spaces. District Winery offers gender-neutral getting-ready suites and customizable spaces while The Line DC provides dedicated accessibility coordinators to ensure everyone feels welcomed and comfortable.

When Are DC's Wedding Venues Most Spectacular?

Each season brings its own magic to DC venues. Spring showcases the National Arboretum's stunning azalea collections while summer evenings at the DC War Memorial offer enchanting views of illuminated monuments. Fall transforms Anderson House's garden with vibrant foliage and winter celebrations shine at Sequoia Restaurant's heated riverside terrace. Year-round the St. Regis's conservatory brings natural light to even the coolest winter days.

What types of wedding venues are in Washington, DC?

What other Washington vendors will I need?

What other wedding venues are nearby?

What other wedding services are nearby?